KR102359970B1 - Apparatus, method, and system for reducing moisture in led lighting fixtures - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus, method, and system for reducing moisture in LED lighting apparatuses. A sealed LED lighting apparatus operated under predetermined conditions (e.g., outdoors, cold ambient environments, high operating currents, and/or uncontained environments) often exhibit condensation on the inner surface of an emitting face thereof. When the condensation occurs, the condensation diffuses light emitted from the lighting apparatus to damage ability to produce useful light, which is used and directed in a way to provide illumination for work (or a desired case) by the leg apparatus. Apparatuses, methods, and systems for reducing moisture in sealed LED lighting apparatuses to reduce or eliminate condensation are configured in a manner that addresses both apparatuses already in the field and apparatuses assembled in a factory. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a desiccant-embedded carrier is positionally mounted within the apparatus in a desired position with no or minimal effect on light output from the apparatus.

Description

Apparatus, method and system for reducing moisture in LED lighting fixtures {APPARATUS, METHOD, AND SYSTEM FOR REDUCING MOISTURE IN LED LIGHTING FIXTURES}

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to removing moisture from lighting fixtures. More specifically, the present invention relates to (i) in situ or field repairs of lighting fixtures that exhibit internal condensation under at least some conditions and (ii) avoiding adverse effects from moisture in lighting fixtures or It relates to apparatus, methods and systems implemented in a factory setting to minimize.

It is well known that light fixtures are designed not only to produce light, but also to be used and directed in a manner that provides useful light, ie, light for work (or otherwise desired). For example, in sports lighting, light fixtures may be installed on some part of a scene (or at an angle above the scene) at both horizontal and vertical angles that are usually sufficient to illuminate the target area but not severe enough to cause glare along the gaze of a normal player. space) and mounted high above the field or other target area. The light projected from each luminaire in an array of such high and collimated luminaires is specifically designed to provide a beam of specific dimensions and intensity. In this way, lighting specifications are met by stacking multiple such beams from multiple tall lighting fixtures to create a composite beam. Accordingly, misalignment of any of the multiple light fixtures in the array may adversely affect the composite beam and may not meet specifications by extension. However, the same undesirable results can be produced when the light emitted from any of many lighting fixtures is adversely affected such that individual beams are not of desired dimensions and intensity.

Lighting fixtures such as those described above include a number of different light directing devices (eg auxiliary lenses) and It relies on light redirecting devices (eg reflectors). The light directing devices and light redirecting devices may be installed in the luminaire housing (eg, proximate the light sources), outside the luminaire housing (eg, proximate the emission surface of the luminaire housing), or both. Especially in the case of LEDs, it is not possible to generate useful light without using multiple light directing and/or light redirecting devices.

Here's the problem. In the current state of the art, new models of LEDs are being developed, which are more robust, have higher efficiency, and can operate at higher temperatures; This requires in-kind development of light directing devices and light redirecting devices to realize these advantages. Transition from light directing and/or light redirecting devices to different materials for higher temperature purposes (eg, switching from acrylic auxiliary lenses to higher operating temperature silicone auxiliary lenses) is LED lighting under some operating conditions. The apparatus creates a phenomenon that exhibits condensation. The condensation collects on the interior of the emitting surface of the instrument housing and adversely affects the production of useful light, for example by diffusing the light. Therefore, there is room for technological improvement.

The areas of improvement are: (a) more effective moisture removal by the ability to place a desiccant proximate to areas of interest inside the instruments without interfering with the light output of the instruments; (b) better for original equipment manufacturing (OEM) and/or the ability to efficiently install in situ after installation, as well as repair and maintenance functions; and (c) economics of manufacture, assembly and operation as well as useful or normal operating life of the lighting fixtures and in terms of cost of the original materials.

Under some operating conditions of LED lighting fixtures, it has been observed that condensation forms inside the emission surface of the fixture housing. - although it is possible that condensation may occur under other operating conditions - condensation may occur with a large number of light directing and/or light redirecting devices and/or especially in LED lighting fixtures operated outdoors in cold environments and/or It has been observed in special LED luminaires operated at high currents (correlated with higher internal housing temperature). At higher operating temperatures, operating conditions and transitions to materials, more moisture is released, evaporated, or otherwise created during normal appliance operation, and when normal appliance operation occurs in a cold ambient environment, the moisture release causes condensation to occur. believed to cause; This means that the instruments are factory sealed prior to shipping (eg, to prevent theft, to prevent dust coating the light directing and/or light redirecting devices) so that moisture traps within the interior space of the instrument housing. because it becomes A rough analogy is helpful. A sufficiently high temperature of a metal pot of cold water on a stove with a glass lid or cover may eventually result in some change from a liquid state to a gaseous state. This evaporation then causes condensation on the inner surface of the glass lid or cover. Similarly, in the present context, condensation or other moisture formation on any part of the glass at the emitting face of the luminaire will also affect the transmission of light from the light sources inside the luminaire through the glass due to the condensation .

To date, there are no known commercially available solutions to correct or prevent this phenomenon. For example, commercially implemented membrane vents that have long been used with sealed LED luminaires are effective in maintaining the desired pressure in the sealed LED luminaire, but provide similar benefits to maintaining the desired moisture level. did not appear to be Indeed, in outdoor or uncontained/environmentally controlled environments, the presence of a membrane vent can actually cause moisture ingress over time. Also, as discussed, simply because dust can accumulate in light directing and/or light redirecting devices and adversely affect production of useful light, eg, by diffusing the light or reducing transmission efficiency, simply because It is not feasible to leave them unsealed.

Accordingly, it is a principal object, feature, advantage or aspect of the present invention to improve the state of the art and/or to address problems, issues or deficiencies in the art.

Apparatus, methods and systems are envisioned for retrofitting or otherwise modifying sealed LED lighting fixtures already in operation (ie in situ) to reduce moisture that can cause condensation under at least some operating conditions. . The field-modified LED luminaire in this way is then sealed and operated until the end of its natural life. As envisioned, by reducing the moisture, the moisture is not completely removed from the appliance; Rather, it is not available to cause condensation to be absorbed by the desiccant material exposed to the interior space of the appliance, and to affect the usefulness of the light generated from the luminaire. This is because future operation of the LED luminaire will result in penetration of moisture (eg, through a membrane vent), so placing the desiccant in the luminaire (or otherwise exposing it to the interior space of the luminaire) will cause condensation. It is important to note that there is an opportunity to provide an on-going reduction in moisture that may be present. This may include sufficient type, amount, and moisture-gathering capacity of desiccant material to function effectively without maintenance or alteration during the expected or normal operating life of the appliance (which may be years if not tens). have.

— without material influence of the appliance light output or operation — as an OEM or moisture-reducing assemblies inside luminaires that utilize a carrier of embedded desiccant to enable flexibility and ease of fitting at specific locations within the appliance. Methods, apparatus and systems for creating and improving in situ are further contemplated as aspects of the present invention.

Additional objects, features, advantages or aspects of the present invention may include one or more of the following:

a. Adaptation and application of the above-described apparatus, methods and systems for instrument manufacturing, assembly or factory setting testing (eg, to avoid the phenomenon entirely);

b. Adaptation and application of the apparatus, methods and systems described above across a variety of desiccant material types, compositions and moisture absorption capacities;

c. adaptation and application of the apparatus, methods and systems described above across various means for attaching desiccant material in situ or in original equipment manufacturing (OEM) to the interior space of a lighting fixture; and

d. Apparatus, methods and systems for determining an appropriate amount of the desiccant material regardless of the source of the moisture for a useful or normal operating life and given intended operating conditions.

These and other objects, features, advantages or aspects of the present invention will become more apparent with reference to the appended specification and claims.

Reference will sometimes be made in the description to the drawings identified by reference numerals and summarized below.
1-7 illustrate various views of a typical outdoor and/or special LED lighting fixture that may experience condensation under at least some operating conditions; It is noted that FIGS. 1 - 7 do not illustrate the luminaire in any particular operating orientation/aiming. Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view, Fig. 2 illustrates a front view, Fig. 3 illustrates a rear view, Fig. 4 illustrates a right side view, Fig. 5 illustrates a left side view, Fig. 6 illustrates a top view, , and FIG. 7 illustrates a bottom view. Note that in FIG. 7 the emissive side glass is hatched to indicate that it is light transmissive, but features normally viewable through the glass are not illustrated (just for convenience).
8 and 9 illustrate various views of the instrument of FIGS. 1-7 as modified in accordance with aspects of the present invention; Here, a first embodiment includes an internally bagged desiccant in some form (eg, a plurality of relatively small particles, larger aggregate masses, etc.) having an associated structure in the lower hemisphere of a luminaire. 8 illustrates a schematic front perspective view of the correct operating orientation (eg, 30 degrees down from horizontal), and FIG. 9 illustrates a reduced, partially exploded front perspective view; Note that LEDs, LED boards, light directing and/or light redirecting devices or electrical connections are not illustrated for clarity.
10 and 11 illustrate various views of the instrument of FIGS. 1-7 as modified in accordance with aspects of the present invention; Here a second embodiment includes an internally moldable desiccant (eg, a manually malleable or plastic volume or mass) in the lower hemisphere of the lighting fixture. FIG. 10 illustrates a schematic front perspective view of the correct operating orientation (eg, 30 degrees down from horizontal), and FIG. 11 illustrates a reduced, partially exploded front perspective view; Note that LEDs, LED boards, light directing and/or light redirecting devices or electrical connections are not illustrated for clarity.
12 and 13 illustrate various views of the instrument of FIGS. 1-7 as modified in accordance with aspects of the present invention; wherein a third embodiment includes an internal loose desiccant (eg, a plurality of relatively small particles) in the upper hemisphere of the device. 12 illustrates a schematic perspective view of the correct operating orientation (eg, 30 degrees down from horizontal), and FIG. 13 illustrates a reduced, partially exploded perspective view; Note that LEDs, LED boards, light directing and/or light redirecting devices, electrical connections or desiccant are not illustrated for clarity, some fixing devices and disassembly lines have been omitted for clarity additional attention to
14 and 15 illustrate various views of the instrument of FIGS. 1-7 as modified in accordance with aspects of the present invention; A fourth embodiment herein includes an internal loose or bagged desiccant in the upper hemisphere of the device. 14 illustrates a schematic perspective view of the correct operating orientation (eg, 30 degrees down from horizontal), and FIG. 15 illustrates a reduced, partially exploded perspective view; Note that LEDs, LED boards, light directing and/or light redirecting devices, electrical connections or desiccant are not illustrated for clarity, some fixing devices and disassembly lines have been omitted for clarity additional attention to
16 illustrates one possible method of calculating the required amount of desiccant to reduce moisture, taking into account the expected ambient conditions, operating conditions and/or lifetime of a luminaire having a defined interior space.
17 and 18A-C are respectively FIGS. 6A and 13A-C of incorporated US Patent Publication No. 2014/0092593, inter alia, LED light sources, mounts and orientations inside the instrument, interior space of the instrument; Illustrates non-limiting examples of such things as glass covers, light directing and light redirecting devices that can seal .
19-25 illustrate various views of an alternative design of an outdoor and/or special LED lighting fixture that may experience condensation under at least some operating conditions; It is noted that FIGS. 19-25 do not illustrate the luminaire in any particular operating orientation/aiming. Fig. 19 illustrates a front perspective view, Fig. 20 illustrates a front view, Fig. 21 illustrates a rear view, Fig. 22 illustrates a right side view, Fig. 23 illustrates a left side view, and Fig. 24 illustrates a top view , and Figure 25 illustrates a bottom view. Note that in FIGS. 19 and 20 the emissive side glass is hatched to indicate that it is light transmissive, but features normally viewable through the glass are not illustrated (just for convenience).
26 and 27 illustrate various views of the instrument of FIGS. 19-25 modified in accordance with aspects of the present invention; An embodiment in accordance with aspects of the invention claimed herein includes a flexible carrier body with a desiccant embedded therein having an associated structure configured to attach the desiccant in situ proximate to one or more edges of an inner surface of an emitting side glass of a lighting fixture. do. Figure 26 illustrates a partially exploded rear perspective view, and Figure 27 illustrates an enlarged and exploded rear perspective view of this embodiment installed in the housing of the luminaire of Figures 19 - 25; Note that LEDs, LED boards, light directing and/or light redirecting devices or electrical connections are not illustrated for clarity.
28-34 illustrate various views of another alternative design of an outdoor and/or special LED lighting fixture that may experience condensation under at least some operating conditions; Note that Figures 28-34 do not illustrate the luminaire in any particular operating orientation/aiming. Fig. 28 illustrates a perspective view, Fig. 29 illustrates a front view, Fig. 30 illustrates a rear view, Fig. 31 illustrates a right side view, Fig. 32 illustrates a left side view, Fig. 33 illustrates a top view and , and FIG. 34 illustrates a bottom view. Note that in FIGS. 28 and 29 the emissive side glass is hatched to indicate that it is light transmissive, but features normally viewable through the glass are not illustrated (just for convenience).
35 and 36 illustrate various views of the instrument of FIGS. 28-34 modified in accordance with aspects of the present invention; One embodiment herein includes a flexible carrier body embedded with desiccant having an associated structure configured to attach the desiccant in situ proximate to one or more edges of an array of LED light sources of a lighting fixture. 35 illustrates a partially exploded perspective view; Note that LEDs, LED boards, light directing and/or light redirecting devices or electrical connections are not illustrated for clarity. FIG. 36 illustrates an enlarged, isolated and 180 degree rotated perspective view of this embodiment installed on a thermally conductive substrate serving as a mounting surface for the LEDs of the luminaire of FIGS. 28-34 .
37 illustrates one possible option or alternative for both the shape of the desiccant and the quantity of fixing devices; It shows the flexible carrier body with a desiccant embedded therein that is bent or otherwise shaped, and the fixing devices of parts 212/219 are omitted for clarity.
38 illustrates use with at least some embodiments (also referred to as an adjustable armature) for mounting any of the light fixtures described above to a pole, crossarm, or other tall structure. illustrates one possible option for knuckles to do; 2 of US Patent Publication No. 2014/0092593 incorporated herein is reproduced.
39 and 40 illustrate two possible alternative designs of LED lighting fixtures that may be used with one or more of embodiments of the present invention; Here instruments 10000 and 11000 include knuckles and external visors to better ensure that light emitted from the included LEDs produces useful light.

A. Overview

For a further understanding of the present invention, specific exemplary embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail. In this description, frequent reference will be made to the drawings. Reference numbers will be used to indicate specific parts in the drawings. Unless stated otherwise, like reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to like parts. Also, similar parts between embodiments - eg glass at the emitting face of the light fixtures, which is a common feature between all embodiments - will have like reference numerals; In this example, we follow the "X03" notation, where "X" is a number (eg, 103, 203, and 803). Finally, Figures 17, 18A-C and 38 are reproduced from US Patent Publication No. 2014/0092593, incorporated herein by reference; Since these figures have been faithfully reproduced, any reference numbers included in FIGS. 17, 18A-C, and 38 are taken with respect to the specification of US Patent Publication No. 2014/0092593, unless expressly stated otherwise herein, have to lose Specifically, reference numerals 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, 10H, 300B, 301, 302 and 303 in Fig. 17, 10, 200, 300A and 300C in Figs. 18A-C, and Figs. 38, 100, 200, 300, 400, and 1000 refer to various instrument components or locations further discussed in US Patent Publication No. 2014/0092593.

With respect to terminology, the terms "lens" and "glass" are used herein to describe different parts, although they are sometimes used interchangeably in the art. Generally speaking, as described herein, an LED light source includes an integral primary lens, and may include a secondary lens (eg, for beam shaping), wherein the apparatus itself comprises a plurality of LEDs having associated primary and secondary lenses. and a glass or similar member that closes (and optionally seals) against an opening into a housing to be received (ie, over at least a portion of the emitting surface). As a specific example, FIG. 36 illustrates an array of LED light sources 9000 each including one or more LEDs (with an integral primary lens) and an auxiliary lens; In practice the array 9000 is mounted on the surface marked "A" in FIG. 35 prior to sealing the portion 802 with the glass 803 against the portion 800 (eg, with sealant and fixation devices). . Comparing the “lenses” of the array 9000 with FIGS. 7 - 15 , 19 - 20 , 26 - 29 , 35 and 37 , each of which has an opening into the housing containing the LED light sources. "Glass" (103/203/803) that seals against The glass 103 or 203 or 803 is typically at least substantially light transmissive. It may not substantially alter its light transmission or cause any substantial beam shaping from the light generated by the light source(s), and the light directing and/or redirecting devices sealed in the instrument may either be under some conditions. (eg, coated with an anti-reflective coating or having lens-like properties that direct or redirect light). Accordingly, the use of the terms lens and glass should be taken in the context in which they are used. Other terms are used for convenience, and are generally interchangeable: eg, “water” or “moisture”; and “device”, “feature”, “structure”, “part”, “part” or “part”.

Further with respect to terminology, aspects of the present invention relate to LED lighting in the sense of being disabled from availability to condense on the interior of fixture surfaces to the extent that at least substantially affect the output of the luminaire or the operation of components within the luminaire. It relates to reducing gas or liquid phase moisture in appliances. It is important to note that, in one context, moisture is described as being absorbed by one or more desiccant materials; The terms "absorb" and "absorb" are generally used to denote the suction and retention of a gas or liquid (or vapor) irrespective of normal operating conditions (eg, when internal temperature promotes evaporation), and No discussion is given herein regarding the absorption of forms (eg, solvent, osmotic, capillary, adsorption) - all of which are contemplated by those skilled in the art as possible and envisioned under the use of the generic terms "absorb" and "absorb". understood - . Additionally, the reduction in moisture may include moisture in liquid form (eg, condensation) or in gaseous form (sometimes referred to in the industry as vapor), with water being specifically referred to, although aspects of the present invention are not limited thereto. (eg, other substances, mixtures, or mixtures with water having at least some similar properties to water, including a phase change in temperature between a liquid and a gas). Finally, a reduction in moisture does not necessarily mean a complete removal of moisture. For example, at least some embodiments are designed such that the desiccant is removable (eg, when the desiccant material is fully saturated) - in this sense moisture is collected by the desiccant for a period of time (but some are still technically internal). space eg present inside the appliance or in parts of the appliance, or in the volume of air remaining inside the appliance), then the moisture collected and captured by the desiccant is completely removed from the internal space. In other embodiments, the desiccant is never removed, so technically moisture is always present in the interior space, but there is a risk of causing undesirable moisture, including higher temperatures during light source operation at higher power levels. Even under conditions where there is moisture, moisture is reduced in the sense that the volume collected and captured by the desiccant is not available to cause the adverse effects already described. Regardless of whether the moisture collected and captured by the desiccant is completely removed from the lighting fixture or is just collected and captured at some point by the desiccant within the device but not the desiccant, the goal is to design the lighting by, for example, reducing the fraction of useful light. It should be appreciated that reducing condensation that can adversely affect the air quality, which can be achieved by permanent or removable means and methods, can be achieved irrespective of where or how moisture is absorbed. All of the above are possible and contemplated in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

B. In general, LED lighting fixtures

Exemplary embodiments envision apparatus, methods and systems for reducing moisture that collects, forms, condenses, or otherwise exists on the interior surface of an LED lighting fixture under certain operating conditions. Generally speaking, LED lighting fixtures that exhibit condensation are operated outdoors and/or at high temperatures (eg, due to a large number of LEDs and/or a high operating current). The light fixtures are typically high and angled down towards the target area (eg, 30 degrees below horizontal with various angles of left and right panning). In this operating orientation, condensation or excess moisture is most likely to collect in the lower hemisphere of the instrument glass at the ejection face of the instrument due to gravity and the nature of the generally round instrument/release face. Of course this may be different based on different operating orientations or different styles/shapes of glass; For example, we will compare the shapes of glasses 103 , 203 and 803 . US Patent Publication No. 2014/0092593, wherein FIGS. 6A and 13A-C of this patent are reproduced herein as FIGS. 17 and 18A-C , which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, and some possible orientations of operation. Illustrate examples of LEDs, LED boards, light directing devices (eg, auxiliary lenses) and light redirecting devices (eg, visors) capable of forming lights, glass styles/shapes, and LED light sources do.

1-7 illustrate a typical LED luminaire 1000 as just described that may exhibit condensation under some operating conditions. Apparatus 1000 generally serves as a mounting surface for the LEDs on one side (ie, the side inside the instrument) and also on one side (ie, the side generally opposite the LED surface side and external to the instrument). and a thermally conductive substrate 100 serving as a mounting surface for one or more heat sink/radiating fins 101 . The interior space of the apparatus is an interior surface (also referred to as a glass cover) of the emitting surface glass 103 sufficient to cover one side of the substrate 100 , the interior surfaces of the walls of the housing 102 , and the opening surface of the lighting fixture. is defined by It is the interior space of this housing, sealed with glass 103 - which is heated and cooled, LEDs and at least some associated light directing and/or light redirecting devices (LED light source 10 of FIGS. 17 - 18C ) ( Also referred to as modules)), including commercially available membrane vents 104 (eg, WL Gore & Associates, Inc), although generally desirable to be sealed (eg, to prevent dust accumulation). ., through any of the outdoor protective vents available from Newark, DE, USA) is desirable to maintain an acceptable pressure.

Of course, in some cases, the glass 103 forms part of a larger assembly that includes at least a sealing device and a lens ring designed to be removable (see, eg, US Pat. No. 7,527,393, incorporated herein by reference). ). As an alternative approach, the glass 203 or 803 is secured in situ by mechanical devices inside the luminaire (see device assembly 220 discussed later) in engagement with fixing devices 301 external to the luminaire. Forms part of a larger assembly, which may be designed to create a temporary or permanent seal (eg, when combined with adhesive near the glass edges). However, to reduce moisture in the LED lighting fixtures, regardless of whether the emitting side glass 103/203/803 is designed to be removable or the permanent seal must be broken to fix the lighting fixtures already in the field. The method for this is as follows.

C. Exemplary method

To reduce moisture for a predetermined period of time (eg, during the normal operating life of a light fixture), exemplary embodiments rely on desiccant materials; Different installation methods, location, shape (eg rigid particles alone or bagged desiccant embedded in a flexible carrier body) and/or desiccant (eg relative to the interior space of a light fixture, emitting surface or LED light source) and/or desiccant composition (eg gel, molecular sieve), type of desiccant (eg clay, silica, calcium chloride), etc. are explored. Nevertheless, it may be important to first determine, predict or estimate how much moisture will be present (eg, in the case of field repairs) or likely to be present during the life of the appliance (eg, when designing in a factory setting) and ; One possible way of doing so is illustrated in FIG. 16 .

According to a first step 7001 of the method 7000, an initial water content of the device is determined. Step 7001 requires some basic knowledge of the relative humidity and temperature when the luminaire was first assembled/sealed in order to understand how much water is present in the defined interior space - this knowledge makes it easy for the manufacturer of the fixture to Need to know, but can also be estimated — . For example, assuming an interior instrument volume volume of approximately 1400 cubic inches and an instrument sealing to approximately 25° C. and 60% relative humidity, the volume of air in the interior volume yields an expected water weight of approximately 0.4 grams. However, as discussed above, this is not the total moisture that may be present in the interior space. For example, some moisture, whether in the liquid, solid, or gaseous phase, may not be collected and captured by the desiccant. However, it is important to understand that any collection and trapping by the desiccant can have beneficial effects. Some of the remaining moisture may not actually be collected and captured by the desiccant. However, again, using the above or similar techniques, even roughly the amount of moisture can be estimated or predicted, based on which the type, amount, characteristics and placement of desiccant in a given appliance is selected, allowing other may promote the advantages of collecting and trapping at least some of those that may result in moisture creating undesirable optical effects in a manner.

a second step 7002 includes determining, predicting or estimating the water content of any light directing and/or light redirecting devices themselves (eg, auxiliary lens, holders for auxiliary lenses); For example, see FIG. 17 for an example of a single holder comprising pieces 10B and 10H, single light directing devices (auxiliary lens 10E) and single light redirecting device (visor 10F), and Reference is made to FIG. 36 , which illustrates the array 9000 and auxiliary lenses. For example, it has been found that silicone auxiliary lenses are more hygroscopic than acrylic and therefore retain more moisture. Thus, baking/burnout (or other applications of heat) procedures well known to those skilled in the art to separate moisture from conventional auxiliary lenses may not be suitable for completely removing moisture from, for example, silicone auxiliary lenses. have. Accordingly, it may not be practically possible to remove all such retained moisture inside the appliance. However, in accordance with aspects of the present invention, exemplary embodiments are advantageous for treating at least some interior moisture for the advantages discussed herein. In addition, some of the moisture retained in the hygroscopic materials may remain absorbed during high temperature operating conditions of the device, such as moisture collected and captured by the desiccant, and thus may not affect the optical properties of the device. have. Additionally, moisture can enter the system over time - particularly in outdoor or uncontained/environmentally controlled environments (discussed later), thus reducing absorption to light directing devices and light redirecting devices. Understanding is an important step. Thereby, according to step 7002 , the light directing and/or light redirecting devices within the interior space are fully saturated, weighed, dehumidified according to standard baking/burnout procedures, weighed, and It can be assumed that the difference in weight is the minimum water weight maintained by the devices. For the specific scenario of approximately 1400 cubic inches of interior instrument space using 228 silicone auxiliary lenses with associated holders, a water weight of approximately 6.5 grams associated with auxiliary lenses/holders is reasonable. Similar or similar techniques may be used for this purpose and for other parts or materials that may have or may retain water or moisture.

To this end, there are two water weights to be considered - the weight of water in the air inside the appliance and the weight of water associated with the light directing and/or light redirecting devices. According to step 7003 (which relates primarily to outdoor and/or uncontained environments), moisture content associated with ambient and operating conditions may be assessed. Typically, LED lighting fixtures used in the outdoor and specialty lighting applications are cycled on and off several times every season for several years. Thus, according to step 7003, the ambient conditions in which the luminaire will operate in order to get an idea of the moisture content - eg average ambient temperatures and humidity levels as well as the expected appliance temperature and number of operating hours during operation. It is useful to look at As previously described, sealed LED lighting fixtures are often equipped with commercially available membrane vents (eg, 104 or 204) to maintain adequate pressure, thus allowing the air inside the appliance (and the moisture it carries) and the appliance to be removed. There is a repetitive and regular exchange of the outside air (and the moisture it carries). In practice, calculations according to step 7003 will vary widely, eg, with operating hours and geographic area, but in an average outdoor environment (eg, an unpowered appliance temperature never being 40°C higher or lower than ambient). , assuming a lifetime of 10 years, approximately 50 power-on cycles per year, and 315 power-off cycles per year (since moisture is entering the system at a different rate even when the LEDs are not operating) ( That is, it is not unreasonable to assume that a luminaire having the aforementioned interior space would occupy approximately 45 grams of water over its lifetime (when the appliances are fully turned on and heated, then turned off and fully cooled).

With the water content expected from steps 7001 , 7002 and 7003 , the total amount of water required from the desiccant material can be determined according to step 7004 . Different desiccants have different weights, different capacities to absorb moisture, and different material properties - all factors described above when determining the amount and type of desiccant according to step 7004 (eg, some are corrosive or or otherwise not suitable for use near LED boards). For example, the desiccant material of the present invention may be non-corrosive to LEDs or LED boards. Such information is usually available from desiccant manufacturers but can be obtained by empirical testing. Assume that a luminaire of the above characteristics may require an amount of desiccant on the order of 250 grams (by weight to desiccant) to absorb an adequate amount of moisture to avoid condensation over the life of the appliance (here 10 years for new appliances). Assuming 20% water absorption) is not unreasonable. For a field repair situation, the method 7000 just described may be modified as needed to address a portion of its operating life (eg, such as life estimates or lifetime calculations based on a remaining life of one year). And, of course, as new desiccant materials are developed with greater water absorption capacity (eg 40%), only a smaller amount (eg 100 grams) may be needed.

As will be appreciated, the calculations described above may be estimates based on the indicated factors. It is not necessarily required that they be made to any high precision or accuracy. Such calculations/estimates may be approximate and may be effective for purposes herein. Techniques as deemed practical may be used to optimize such calculations/estimates. Also, as calculations/estimations can be taken and as may be practical, the desiccant dose is overdesigned, whether it is the overall expected useful life of the appliance or a fraction thereof, all conditions foreseeable during the selected amount of time and operation. can have higher confidence that they will be reasonably effective against

D. Exemplary Device Example 1

8 and 9 illustrate a first embodiment; Note that LEDs, LED boards, light directing and/or light redirecting devices or electrical connections are not illustrated for clarity (see FIGS. 17-18C for examples of at least some of the foregoing) ). wherein the desiccant material 303 of the assembly 300 is inserted into the housing 102 of the instrument 3000 and extends through the hold-down plate 302 and into the complementary portions 304 of the housing 102 . It is secured in place via fixing devices 301 . Here the desiccant material 303 is enclosed or contained at least in a gas permeable bag (which may be at least partially liquid permeable) as long as the material holds the desiccant. Such bag material may be the same or similar to that used in any of a wide variety of bagged desiccants that are put into the packaging of products to absorb moisture. The material of the bag should allow sufficient transfer of moisture to the desiccant to be effective for the purposes described herein.

The main advantages of this embodiment are (i) that because assembly 300 is physically close to the site of condensation in the lower hemisphere of the interior space of the instrument, moisture is rapidly collected and removed from the interior exit surface of glass 103; and (ii) that the present approach can be easily implemented in a factory setting so that the amount/type/dose of desiccant can be selected such that no on-site repairs are ever required for the expected life of the appliance. That being said, this embodiment requires that (i) unseal from glass 103/housing 102 (often intended to be a permanent seal) in a field repair situation, and (ii) feature 304 (or similar) structure) is not available, which may be difficult to install in a field repair situation, and (iii), depending on the optical properties of portion 302 , may affect the transmission of light from inside the instrument to the outside of the instrument into the target area. It can reduce useful light.

E. Exemplary device embodiment 2

10 and 11 illustrate a second embodiment; Note that LEDs, LED boards, light directing and/or light redirecting devices or electrical connections are not illustrated for clarity (see FIGS. 17-18C for examples of at least some of the foregoing) ). Here the desiccant material 400 is piped, foamed, or otherwise formed in place in some portion of the lower hemisphere of the interior space of the appliance 4000 . Indeed, any of a variety of moldable desiccants may be used; For example, they are available from DryTech, Inc., Cookstown, NJ, USA.

The main advantages of this embodiment are (i) that because the desiccant 400 is physically close to the site of condensation in the lower hemisphere of the interior space of the appliance, moisture is rapidly collected and removed from the interior exit surface of the glass 103, and (ii) that the present approach can be easily implemented in a factory setting so that the amount/type/dose of desiccant can be selected such that no on-site repairs are ever required for the expected life of the appliance. That being said, this embodiment (i) requires unsealing from glass 103/housing 102 in an on-site repair situation (eg (eg, from a removed or modified membrane vent) and that the existing aperture (unable to be piped to the aperture), (ii) the moldable desiccant may be more difficult or more expensive to apply in situ than in other exemplary embodiments.

F. Exemplary Device Example 3

12 and 13 illustrate a third embodiment; It is noted that LEDs, LED boards, light directing and/or light redirecting devices, electrical connections, or desiccant are not illustrated for the sake of clarity (see Figures 17 - for examples of at least some of the foregoing) see 18c). Here the loose desiccant material (not shown) of assembly 500 is poured into perforated aluminum alloy tube 501 within the interior space of instrument 5000 . As can be seen, a perforated tube 501 is present in sections, each section being closed at opposite ends by a cap 503 once desiccant is inserted and desiccant spilling out. have a larger particle size than the perforations to avoid (eg, 2-4 mm diameter silica gel beads available from Dry & Dry, Brea, CA, USA). One possible means of attaching the tubes 501 in situ is to attach a first portion of the bracket 502 to the portion 304 (eg, via a fastening device 301 ), and (eg, a rivet It relies on the existing parts 304 of the housing 102 by securing the tube section 501 to the second part of the bracket 502 (via rivets 504 ) (two of the bracket 502 ). Note that styles are illustrated in FIG. 13 ).

The main advantages of this embodiment are (i) that, since the assembly 500 is located in the upper hemisphere of the luminaire, useful light is not likely to be affected, and (ii) the present approach can be easily implemented in a factory setting. Thus, the amount/type/dose of desiccant can be selected so that no on-site repairs are ever required for the expected life of the appliance. That said, although this embodiment is difficult to machine and therefore difficult to mass-produce; It can be useful in field repair situations where the tubes can be fed into an existing aperture (eg from a removed or modified membrane vent) and secured in situ (either in the manner just described or otherwise). .

G. Exemplary Device Example 4

14 and 15 illustrate a fourth embodiment; It is noted that LEDs, LED boards, light directing and/or light redirecting devices, electrical connections, or desiccant are not illustrated for the sake of clarity (see Figures 17 - for examples of at least some of the foregoing) see 18c). wherein the loose desiccant material (not shown) of assembly 600 is attached (eg, via rivets 504 ) to a first perforated anodized metal sheet cartridge portion 601 , which is perforated anodized. A metal sheet is poured into the aperture of the cartridge portion 602 . After a sufficient amount of desiccant has been inserted into the space defined by the portions 602/601 - the desiccant (eg, the silica gel beads) has a larger particle size than the perforations to avoid spillage and/or a filter 604 (eg, polyester or other fabric capable of functioning at high temperatures) - the aperture is closed with a cap 603 . Assembly 600 is attached to some feature (eg, existing portion 304 by fasteners 301 ) in the upper hemisphere of the interior space of instrument 6000 .

The main advantages of this embodiment are (i) that, since assembly 600 is located in the upper hemisphere of the luminaire, useful light is not likely to be affected, and (ii) the present approach can be easily implemented in a factory setting. Thus, the amount/type/dose of desiccant can be selected so that no on-site repairs are ever required for the expected life of the appliance. That said, this embodiment requires more material and machining than the other embodiments described heretofore.

H. Exemplary Device Example 5

19-25 illustrate alternative designs of outdoor and/or specialty LED lighting fixtures that may experience condensation under at least some operating conditions; Here a square, rectangular or other shaped lighting fixture has angled features where moisture can condense (as opposed to round-shaped features with defined curvature/hemispheres as in Examples 1-4). However, as with previous embodiments, the instrument 2000 serves as a mounting surface for the LEDs on one side (ie, the side inside the instrument) and also serves as a mounting surface for the LEDs on one side (ie, generally opposite the LED surface side and faces the instrument). a thermally conductive substrate 200 serving as a mounting surface for one or more heat sinks/radiating fins 201 (on the external side). Additionally, the instrument 2000 includes an interior space defined by one side of the substrate 200 , interior surfaces of the walls of the housing 202 , and an interior surface of the emitting surface glass 203 ; It is noted that LEDs, LED boards, light directing and/or light redirecting devices or electrical connections are not illustrated for clarity (for examples of at least some of the foregoing, FIGS. 17-18C and FIGS. see 36). Instrument 2000 may additionally include a surface 205 for mating to a knuckle (discussed later). A vent 204 into the interior space is positioned on or elsewhere on the housing 202 . The fasteners 301 detachably attach the housing 202 to the substrate 200 .

26 and 27 illustrate various views of the instrument of FIGS. 19-25 modified in accordance with this embodiment. Here, the desiccant is embedded in the flexible carrier body, and the combination of the desiccant and the carrier body can be cut to size, bent into a desired shape, and fixed in situ. As such, such a flexible desiccant can be bent around one or more sides of the glass 203 (eg, to approximate the perimeter of the glass 203 ); If the action indicates that condensation occurs on some sides of the glass 203 and not on other sides, the carrier body/desiccant 211 may be installed only on these sides (eg, to save money). have.

In one non-limiting example, structural foam spacers traditionally used in window insulation (eg, the model SUPER SPACER ^® TriSeal™ Premium available from Edgetech (UK) Ltd, Coventry, England) work well , has been found to promote the benefits of collecting and capturing at least some of those that may otherwise result in moisture creating undesirable optical effects in a luminaire. SUPER SPACER® material is an extruded thermoset polymer construction silicone foam spacer with desiccant integrally incorporated. It is thermoset, cannot be reshaped through reheating, retains its flexibility over a wide temperature range, and is highly resistant to ozone, sunlight and oxidation. It does not generate air bubbles or bubbles. It contains a carrier that is a flexible gas and liquid permeable material defining a volume, and the desiccant is distributed throughout the volume. It is marketed as a perimeter insulation for sealed insulating glass units for sealing, energy efficiency, spacing of the glazing from its framework and compensation for glazing stresses. Additional details can be found at en.quanex.com/broschuren/ and "IG Manufacturers Bochure (DIN A4) (PDF)" accessed 25 May 2021 at https://en.quanex.com/broschuren/ can be selected. It can be purchased in various sizes. Examples are a roll that can be several millimeters high (eg 3-8 mm), several millimeters wide (5-20 mm), several feet long (and then cut to length for applications). ) are included. Thus, for these types of insulating strips for glazing of these types of sizes, what is the internal volume for a given strip height and width cut to a specific length can be reverse engineered, so that its moisture- Absorption capacity and desiccant efficiency can be roughly estimated. Empirical tests or manufacturers' information may also represent the same; Reference is again made to the discussion regarding method 7000 . For details on one way to embed a desiccant into a foam carrier, see Patent No. US 9,803,415, which is incorporated herein by reference.

In this example of a Super Spacer® insulation strip material, the foam has a rectangular cross-section spacer tube and has a desiccant (3A Molecular-Sieve; 47% of minimum weight) embedded in the foam. It is shipped in sealed bags to maintain desiccant protection prior to installation and use. An example of a desiccant is silica gel. Others are possible (activated charcoal, calcium sulfate, calcium chloride and molecular sieves (eg zeolite spheroids)). However, as will be appreciated, other flexible materials having desiccant properties and types may be used, with or without other features, such as, for example, window insulation strips or vapor barriers incorporated into the materials.

As can be seen from FIGS. 26 and 27 , in this embodiment, the positioning assembly 210 is used to mount the flexible carrier comprising the desiccant in its operating orientation. The assembly 210 may be configured to drill, score and bend the device 220 , the carrier body/desiccant 211 , and otherwise secure the carrier body/desiccant 211 in an operating orientation. one or more rigid members 212/219 formed of a sufficiently thin material (eg, 0.030" thick aluminum sheet) to allow the device 220 to extend and thread the securing device 301 to. An in situ release surface on body 202 that is clamped (or otherwise mounted), including central aperture portion 217 , or otherwise with portions 217 and 218 of device 220 . It is operatively connected with a receiver 215 for positioning the glass 203. If desired, portion 216 of device 220 is internally threaded so that securing device 301 is connected to portions 212/219. ) through the aperture 213 of (note that it is not pierced or threaded when sized to stop short of may not be necessary in some applications as it is sufficient to effectively mount and position portions 212/219 in situ - Figure 26 thus shows that the flexible and elongate nature of desiccant 211 is . may cooperate with mounting members or hardware to position the desiccant 211 at or near an internal position, where the position The glass 203 in a manner that substantially affects the operation of the lighting fixture 2000 , including proximate the inner surface of the side glass 203 , but particularly advantageously blocking light designed to be emitted for lighting purposes. around or outside of the glass 203 so as not to block any substantial portion of the As will be appreciated, FIG. 26 shows a combination of placing the desiccant 211 in its position relative to the glass 203 along the bottom edge and one side edge. Of course, along some or all of the top edge and other sides; or similar positioning according to any one of the top, bottom, side or opposing side edges (or any portion thereof), or any combination of the foregoing.

In this embodiment, the framing of the cotton glass 203 includes the body 202 . The body 202 has a depth that extends the plane of the side glass 203 away from the plane of the substrate 200 . This provides depth for placement of the positioning structure(s) 210 and desiccant 211 around but close to the face glass 203 (see in particular FIG. 27 ).

It is further noted that in this embodiment, not only the perimeter of the main body 202 but also the perimeter of the surface glass 203 has a smaller area than the substrate 200 (referring to that of the substrate 100 of Embodiments 1-4). compared to the area around the face glass 103 and the area around the expanded circumference of the body 102 compared to the smaller area around the circumference). As such, grading the peripheral regions from the substrate 200 to the body 202 and then to the cotton glass 203 is for positioning the desiccant close to the cotton glass 203 but without substantial interference with the cotton glass 203 . present the problem In FIG. 26 , framing around the perimeter of the cotton glass 203 further allows the positioning assembly(s) 210 to mount near the cotton glass 203 without blocking or obstructing the cotton glass.

Advantages of this embodiment are (i) that useful light is not likely to be affected, as assembly 210 is located behind portions of housing 202 and cannot be viewed directly through emitting surface glass 203; ii) this approach can be easily implemented in a factory setting so that the amount/type/dose of desiccant can be chosen such that no on-site repairs are ever required during the expected life of the appliance, and (iii) this embodiment can be implemented in at least some other implementation. It is a lower cost option than the examples. That said, since this embodiment uses a smaller overall amount of desiccant compared to at least some other embodiments (where both the interior space of the appliance 2000 and the available mounting locations are, for example, with the appliance 1000 ) comparatively limited), it is possible that field replacements of the carrier body/desiccant 211 may be necessary in at least some extreme operating conditions.

I. Exemplary Device Example 6

28-34 illustrate another alternative design of an outdoor and/or specialty LED lighting fixture that may experience condensation under at least some operating conditions; Here again (as opposed to round-shaped features with defined curvature/hemispheres as in Examples 1-4) a square, rectangular or other shaped lighting fixture has angled features on which moisture can condense - but There are different features on the interior space exterior surfaces of the instrument, which have another function of generating useful illumination and help to create useful illumination (here ribbing on the housing 802 ). 38-40 (discussed later) illustrate additional external features (eg, knuckles, external visors) that contribute to providing useful light.

As with previous embodiments, in conjunction with the housing 802 , the instrument 8000 serves as a mounting surface for the LEDs on one side (ie, the side inside the instrument) and also serves as a mounting surface for the LEDs on one side (ie, the LED in general). A mating surface for attaching the light fixture to the knuckle as well as a thermally conductive substrate 800 that serves as a mounting surface for one or more heat sink/heat fins 801 on the side opposite the surface side and external to the appliance. 805). Additionally, the instrument 8000 includes an interior space defined by one side of the substrate 800 , the interior surfaces of the walls of the housing 802 , and the interior surface of the emitting surface glass 803 . It is noted that LEDs, LED boards, light directing and/or light redirecting devices or electrical connections are not illustrated for clarity (for examples of at least some of the foregoing, FIGS. 17-18C and FIGS. see 36).

35 and 36 illustrate various views of the instrument of FIGS. 28-34 modified according to a still further embodiment. As in the previous embodiment, the desiccant is embedded in the flexible carrier body; Unlike the previous embodiment above, here the desiccant 211 adheres to the thermally conductive substrate 800 and forms a structure proximate to the LED light source rather than the luminaire housing and proximate to the emitting surface (as in the previous embodiment). clamped (or otherwise mounted and/or positioned in situ) through As can be seen from FIGS. 35 and 36 , desiccant 211 is positionally affixed to rigid members 223/225 (similar in composition and function to parts 212/219). and, optionally in combination with a spacer 222/226, so that portions 223/225 (here via fixing devices 301, respectively, via apertures 224/213, respectively, and with complementary threaded Positioned proximate to array 9000 of LED light sources when secured in holes 806 . Here, spacer 222 serves another purpose - it serves as a wire management system (eg, to contain and limit wiring to LEDs) - although spacer 226 serves other purposes - it serves to secure the filter—which is specific to the design and operation of the mechanism 8000 , so parts 222/226 may not be present in all applications of this embodiment.

Advantages of this embodiment are that (i) the desiccant 211 is physically close to the portions where it is most likely to emit moisture (ie, the LED array 9000 ), so that moisture will not condense on the emitting side glass 803 . (ii) the amount/type/dose of desiccant can be selected so that field repairs are never required during the expected appliance life as this approach can be easily implemented in a factory setting; , and (iii) that this embodiment is a lower cost option than at least some other embodiments. That said, since this embodiment uses a smaller overall amount of desiccant compared to at least some other embodiments (where both the interior space of the appliance 8000 and the available mounting locations are, for example, with the appliance 1000 ) comparatively limited), it is possible that field replacements of the carrier body/desiccant 211 may be necessary in at least some extreme operating conditions.

J. options and alternatives

The present invention may take many forms and embodiments. The above-mentioned examples are just some of them. To provide some meaning of some options and alternatives, some examples are given below.

As stated, condensation on the inner surface of the glass at the emitting side of the LED lighting fixture may be undesirable as it affects the transmission of light from the inside of the device to the outside of the device; That is, it reduces the usefulness of the light. This may relate to instruments of a different design than those illustrated herein, light sources other than LEDs, different or additional light directing and/or light redirecting devices, different operating orientations, different styles of instrument glass, as described herein. may be under operating conditions other than those discussed in For example, the lighting fixtures and/or glass may be round and/or have a pronounced curvature (as in embodiments 1-4 and FIGS. 18a-c and 38), or rectangular, square, It may be wedge-shaped or may have some angled surface and/or edges (as in embodiments 5 and 6, and FIGS. 37, 39 and 40). The luminaire design itself may be at a general level - eg, the fixture 8000 does not include a membrane vent - or at a very specific level - eg, the light directing devices of the array 9000 of LED light sources are the LED light sources 10 of FIG. 17 . ) (LED light source 10 further includes light redirecting device 10F) differs in design from light directing device 10E—which may be different in terms of parts. All are possible options and alternatives envisaged in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

Additionally, although specific desiccant forms, shapes, and materials have been discussed herein, others are possible—eg, in some embodiments, the desiccant may be solid, loose, bagged, etc.; In embodiments, the desiccant is embedded in a flexible carrier—in which case, certain devices may likewise take on a different shape or form (eg, the perforations in portions 501 , 602 and 601 are larger, smaller and , rounder, more square, etc.). For example, FIG. 37 illustrates the flexible carrier body described above with a desiccant 211 embedded therein that is curved or otherwise shaped to match the general curvature of the emitting surface glass 203 .

In further connection with the options and alternatives, a discussion has been given herein of glass sealing to the emitting face of light directing devices, light redirecting devices and luminaires; Although some optical properties (eg, anti-reflective properties, beam shaping, light transmission) have been discussed, a wide variety of optical properties exist, and any lighting fixtures or devices having such properties likewise depart from aspects in accordance with the present invention. It is important to note that benefits can be obtained. For example, “glass” as used herein describes a device that seals or closes against an opening or emitting face of a lighting fixture; The glass can be, for example, completely translucent, or translucent, or coated with a filter or color gel. As another example, at least some light directing and/or light redirecting devices may exist outside the interior space of the light fixtures. 38 illustrates a vertical (ie, its connection to a crossarm or other tall structure) to provide light redirection of the entire LED lighting fixture when the fixture is attached to the knuckle (ie, at the mating surface 205/805). Knuckle assembly 100 (again, incorporated US Patent Publication No. 2014/0092593) that can be pivoted in both planes (about a point) and horizontal (ie, about its midpoint bolt). using the numbering from ). 39 and 40 illustrate LED lighting fixtures 10000 and 11000, respectively, with different designs of knuckle and also including visors (ie, light redirecting devices) outside the interior space of the LED lighting fixtures. All are possible options and alternatives envisaged in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

Finally, reference is given herein to stationary devices and to devices mounted or attached to a surface; It is important to note that various means exist for joining, bonding or attaching devices in a removable or permanent manner (eg, taping, gluing, welding, etc.), all of which are possible and contemplated. For example, many embodiments are described as requiring unsealing in order to be installed in a field repair situation. In many instances, rather than removing the glass of the instrument, existing apertures (eg, from a removed or modified membrane vent) are removed from such a "port" by a "used" packet or carrier of desiccant, if desired. can be cleaned and replaced with a new one, and then, if necessary, to maintain (e.g., via a cap) temporary desiccant packets or structure filled with desiccant in the direction of operation so that it can be sealed (eg, via a cap) or otherwise positioned. , by installing brackets inside the aperture against the inner surface/wall of the instrument) in a permanent manner. In this sense, both permanent and temporary means are used to provide an appropriate solution; All of these and the foregoing are possible and envisioned. Also, it should be understood that stationary devices may generally vary in quantity, shape, or type depending on the needs of the application. For example, FIG. 37 illustrates an instrument 2000 without fixing devices in portions 212 and 219, although apertures 213 are present in the portions. For some applications, the structure of the device assembly 220 is sufficient to resiliently hold the desiccant 211 without at least some quantity of fixing devices by extension and the portions 212/219. Again, all of the above are possible and envisioned.

Claims (20)

A device for reducing moisture in a lighting fixture, comprising:
a. desiccant material embedded in the carrier body; and
b. one or more parts for attaching the carrier body embedded with desiccant material to a part of the luminaire in the interior space of the luminaire;
the one or more parts,
i. a first structure attached to the portion of the light fixture; and
ii. A device for reducing moisture in a lighting fixture comprising a second structure configured to resiliently confine the carrier body into which a desiccant material is contained. According to claim 1,
wherein said carrier body is flexible and said one or more portions further comprising a structure for resiliently confining said carrier body embedded with desiccant material when said one or more portions are bent into shape. 3. The method of claim 2,
the portion of the light fixture includes a housing having a perimeter, and
A device for reducing moisture in a lighting fixture, wherein the shape of the curved carrier body in which the desiccant material is embedded approximates the perimeter of the glass in the housing. 4. The method of claim 3,
a perimeter of the glass in the housing is less than a perimeter of the housing, and
wherein the glass in the housing defines an emitting surface of the luminaire. As a system,
A lighting fixture and a device according to claim 1, comprising:
wherein the light fixture comprises a plurality of LEDs on one or more LED boards. 6. The method of claim 5,
wherein the desiccant material is non-corrosive to LEDs or LED boards. 6. The method of claim 5,
wherein the light fixture further comprises one or more light directing or redirecting devices associated with the plurality of LEDs. 8. The method of claim 7,
and the desiccant material is selected at least in part for the amount of moisture contained in or absorbed by the one or more light directing or redirecting devices. According to claim 1,
wherein the desiccant material is selected at least in part for its capacity to absorb an amount of moisture over an operating life of the luminaire. 8. The method of claim 7,
wherein the light directing device comprises an auxiliary lens. A method of reducing moisture in an interior space of a lighting fixture, comprising:
a. determining an amount of moisture to be reduced in the light fixture over a predetermined period of time;
b. determining a size and shape of a flexible carrier body having an embedded desiccant having a capacity to absorb an amount of moisture during the predetermined period of time; and
c. In a structure attached to a portion of the luminaire in the interior space of the luminaire such that the flexible carrier body containing the desiccant is positioned in situ relative to a feature of the luminaire, a desiccant installing the embedded flexible carrier body;
i. The lighting fixture comprises an array of LED light sources mounted on a surface comprising a thermally conductive substrate;
ii. wherein the flexible carrier body is installed proximate to one or more sides of the LED light sources in the structure on the thermally conductive substrate. 12. The method of claim 11,
Installing the flexible carrier body with a desiccant embedded therein, in a structure attached to a portion of the light fixture, comprises: proximate one or more sides of a light transmissive surface of the light fixture in an interior space of the light fixture. A method of reducing moisture in an interior space of a light fixture, further comprising the step of installing a sex carrier body. 13. The method of claim 12,
the light transmissive surface of the luminaire defines an emitting surface of the luminaire, and
A structure attached to a portion of the luminaire proximate to one or more sides of the light transmissive surface may (i) not be directly visible through the light transmissive surface and (ii) adversely affect useful light generated by the luminaire A method of reducing moisture in an interior space of a lighting fixture, which is installed so as not to be disturbed. A lighting fixture comprising:
a. one or more light sources mounted to the substrate in thermal contact with the heat sink;
b. a body having an interior space extending from the substrate to an opening;
c. a glass surface mounted in the opening to the body and having an inner surface exposed to the interior space of the body;
d. a carrier containing a desiccant positioned in the interior space at one or more sides of the circumference of the inner surface of the glass surface; and
e. a portion clamping the glass face in situ at the opening to the body, and one or more rigid members configured to secure the desiccant-embedded carrier in its operating orientation about the inner face of the glass face. including devices;
f. wherein the desiccant position is effective to prevent or eliminate moisture condensation on the inner surface of the glass surface. 15. The method of claim 14,
wherein the carrier is a flexible gas and liquid permeable material defining a volume, and the desiccant is distributed throughout the volume. 16. The method of claim 15,
wherein the carrier is a flexible foam and the desiccant is any of a molecular sieve, silica gel or silica beads. 15. The method of claim 14,
wherein the size, shape and volume of the carrier and the type, amount, and distribution of the desiccant contained therein are predetermined based on an estimate of desiccant effectiveness required to effectively remove condensation within the apparatus for a predetermined period of time. 18. The method of claim 17,
wherein the predetermined period of time is an estimated useful or normal operating life of the luminaire. delete delete

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